The Bruce Highway south of Cairns is now fully open to traffic after the completion of a major $80 million repair program to fix extensive damage caused by a severe cyclone.
Vital Transport Link Restored
The critical national highway, which serves as the main road link for Far North Queensland, has undergone significant reconstruction. The work focused on a section between Gordonvale and Babinda, an area that was heavily impacted by landslips and pavement failures during the extreme weather event.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) confirmed the project's completion and the highway's full reopening. This marks a crucial milestone for the region's connectivity and economic recovery, ensuring safer and more reliable travel for freight, tourists, and local residents.
Scope of the Repair Work
The repair project was extensive and complex, addressing the severe damage inflicted on the highway's infrastructure. Crews worked tirelessly to stabilise the road corridor and rebuild sections that were compromised.
Key activities included major earthworks to repair and reinforce slopes, reconstruction of damaged pavement layers, and improvements to drainage systems to better handle future heavy rainfall. The scale of the work required a substantial investment of time and resources to return the highway to a safe and operational standard.
The $80 million funding was allocated specifically for these critical recovery works, highlighting the importance of the Bruce Highway as a lifeline for communities and industries across the north.
Enhanced Safety and Future Resilience
With the repairs now complete, motorists can expect improved travel conditions on this key section of the highway. The work not only restores the road but also incorporates measures aimed at bolstering its resilience against future extreme weather events, which are common in the tropical region.
The reopening is a significant relief for the local economy, particularly the agricultural and tourism sectors, which depend on an efficient road network for transporting goods and welcoming visitors. The timely completion of the project helps secure the region's supply chains and supports ongoing recovery efforts.
Transport authorities have thanked the community for their patience during the construction period and remind drivers to continue to exercise caution, obey all signage, and be aware of workers who may still be conducting final checks and minor works in the area.
